A confrontation between veteran Australian lawmaker Bob Katter and a journalist escalated at a press conference on immigration in Brisbane on March 7, 2024. The incident occurred when Katter, founder of Katter’s Australian Party, reacted aggressively to a question about his Lebanese heritage, shaking his fist and threatening the reporter.
The press conference was called to address Katter’s plans to attend the March For Australia, an anti-immigration rally scheduled for March 10 in multiple cities. Tensions rose when Josh Bavas, a reporter from Channel Nine, mentioned Katter’s heritage, prompting the lawmaker to interrupt. “Don’t say that! Because that irritates me, and I’ve punched blokes in the mouth for saying that,” Katter shouted, pointing at Bavas.
Katter, who has served for nearly two decades in federal politics, claimed he was “restraining” himself from physical violence. The altercation, captured on camera, showed Katter stepping closer to Bavas, shaking his fist and labeling the journalist a “racist.” Bavas later stated, “In my near 20 years in journalism, I’ve never experienced that kind of reaction from an elected representative.”
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation. Fiona Dear, director of news and current affairs at Channel Nine’s parent company, described Katter’s threats as unacceptable and called his allegations of racism “baseless and offensive.” She urged Katter to issue an apology.
Katter’s office did not respond to requests for comment following the incident. Another reporter present at the press conference expressed concern, stating, “I think it’s quite offensive to threaten a journalist.” In response, Katter’s son, Robbie Katter, who is also a state lawmaker, acknowledged the situation by saying, “Point taken.”
Katter, now 80 years old, is recognized as Australia’s longest-serving federal lawmaker. He is known for his outspoken and often eccentric views. In a previous incident in 2017, he gained attention for abruptly dismissing a discussion on same-sex marriage, claiming that “every three months, a person is torn to pieces by a crocodile in north Queensland.”
The exchange during the press conference highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration issues in Australia, as well as the challenges journalists face while covering sensitive topics.
